Meaning
Introducing oneself.
Cultural Background
Dutch people value directness. When introducing yourself, look them in the eye and give a firm handshake. Using 'Mijn naam is' shows you are serious. Flemish culture can be slightly more formal than Dutch culture. Using 'Mijn naam is' is very common and appreciated in business. In Surinamese Dutch, introductions are often very polite and may include more formal titles. Even in 'flat' Dutch companies, the first introduction usually uses 'Mijn naam is' before moving to first names.
First and Last
In formal settings, always provide both your first and last name after 'Mijn naam is'.
Don't over-formalize
If everyone is saying 'Ik ben', don't insist on 'Mijn naam is' or you might seem distant.
Meaning
Introducing oneself.
First and Last
In formal settings, always provide both your first and last name after 'Mijn naam is'.
Don't over-formalize
If everyone is saying 'Ik ben', don't insist on 'Mijn naam is' or you might seem distant.
The 'M'n' Trick
To sound more native in semi-formal speech, shorten 'Mijn' to 'M'n'.
Handshake
Always offer a hand when saying this phrase for the first time.
Test Yourself
Fill in the missing word to complete the introduction.
Mijn ____ is Sarah.
The word for 'name' in Dutch is 'naam'.
Which sentence is a correct formal introduction?
Select the best option:
This follows the correct Subject-Verb-Complement order.
Complete the dialogue between a receptionist and a visitor.
Receptionist: Goedemorgen, wat is uw naam? Bezoeker: Goedemorgen, ________.
'Mijn naam is Mark' is the most appropriate formal response.
Match the phrase to the correct situation.
Situation: You are at a job interview.
This is the most professional choice for an interview.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Dutch vs English
Practice Bank
4 exercisesMijn ____ is Sarah.
The word for 'name' in Dutch is 'naam'.
Select the best option:
This follows the correct Subject-Verb-Complement order.
Receptionist: Goedemorgen, wat is uw naam? Bezoeker: Goedemorgen, ________.
'Mijn naam is Mark' is the most appropriate formal response.
Situation: You are at a job interview.
This is the most professional choice for an interview.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
12 questionsYes, usually. Use 'Ik ben' or 'Ik heet' instead to sound more relaxed.
No, that is incorrect. Use 'Mijn naam is' or 'Ik heet'.
No, only the first word of the sentence and the name itself are capitalized.
Absolutely, it's a very professional way to start an introductory email.
'Naam' is the general word for name, 'voornaam' is your first name.
You say: 'Wat is uw naam?'
You can, but it might sound a bit like a teacher or a doctor to them.
Yes, it is perfectly standard in Flanders as well.
This is informal/slang and is generally avoided in correct written Dutch.
No, 'mijn' remains the same regardless of gender.
Statistically, 'Ik ben' is used most often in daily life.
No, in Dutch you always say [First Name] [Last Name].
Related Phrases
Ik heet...
similarI am called...
Ik ben...
similarI am...
Aangenaam
builds onNice to meet you
Mag ik me voorstellen?
specialized formMay I introduce myself?
Hoe heet u?
contrastWhat is your name? (formal)
Dit is...
similarThis is...
